Gratitude, living traditions, regional delicacies and a warm sense of community
The traditional harvest festival on Sunday, 11 October 2026, turned into a special celebration for all generations at Admont Benedictine Abbey. Numerous attendees and a well-attended Gesäuse specialities market created a wonderful atmosphere. When the harvest has been brought in and the fruits of the past months become visible, it is time to pause and give thanks. It was precisely this sentiment that was at the heart of this year’s harvest festival at Admont Abbey.
The celebrations began at 9.30 am with the traditional blessing of the harvest wreath in the Stiftskellerhof. Afterwards, a large number of worshippers gathered for a festive service in Admont Abbey Church, accompanied by music from the church choir and the Admont/Hall brass band. „For us, Harvest Festival is more than just a celebration marking the end of the harvest. It is an invitation to pause and reflect with gratitude on what God has given us.“, Abbot Gerhard Hafner emphasised. At the same time, the celebration served as a reminder of the importance of community, mutual solidarity and treating creation with care.
A well-attended Gesäuse speciality market showcasing regional diversity
After the festive service, the Market town of Admont to the traditional agape on the church square. The subsequent Gesäuse Speciality Market It was enjoyed by a large number of visitors and offered a wonderful opportunity to discover the variety of regional produce.
From delicious culinary specialities to lovingly crafted handicrafts, the exhibitors presented a diverse range of products. The numerous wonderful products reflected the quality, creativity and connection to the region in a special way.
The Wines from the abbey’s own vineyard, DVERI PAX from Slovenia invited visitors to enjoy themselves and linger, and helped to create a cosy atmosphere.
A celebration for the whole family
The wide variety of visitors of all ages was particularly pleasing. Whilst the adults enjoyed regional specialities, strolled through the market stalls and chatted amongst themselves, a very special treat awaited the youngest guests: the bouncy castle brought a sparkle to the children’s eyes, sparked boisterous laughter and provided plenty of fun.
The festival programme also featured a blend of culture and indulgence: a special guided tour of the library, followed by a wine tasting, offered the opportunity to discover more about the world-famous abbey library and the centuries-old wine-making tradition of Admont Benedictine Abbey.
Gratitude that brings us together
The Harvest Festival has a centuries-old tradition, with origins dating back to the 3rd century. Even today, this tradition has lost none of its significance. It serves as a reminder that nature’s bounty, people’s labour and the spirit of community in our society are not to be taken for granted.
The 2026 Harvest Festival was a striking demonstration of how vibrantly tradition is kept alive at Admont Abbey. The large number of people taking part, the excellent turnout at the speciality market and the many warm encounters made this Sunday a special celebration of gratitude and community.
The Harvest Festival has a centuries-old tradition, with origins dating back to the 3rd century. Even today, this tradition has lost none of its significance. It serves as a reminder that nature’s bounty, people’s labour and the spirit of community in our society are not to be taken for granted.
The 2026 Harvest Festival was a striking demonstration of how vibrantly tradition is kept alive at Admont Abbey. The large number of people taking part, the excellent turnout at the speciality market and the many warm encounters made this Sunday a special celebration of gratitude and community.
Admont Benedictine Abbey would like to express its sincere thanks to all those involved, the market town of Admont, the musical performers, the exhibitors and all the volunteers.
